To be a contractor in Alaska you need to get the proper contractor’s license through the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing. This will walk you through the process of getting your license, insurance and bonding and staying compliant with state regulations.

Licensing Agencies in Alaska

Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development – Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing

Web: Alaska Department of Commerce

Alternate Phone Number: 512-463-6599 (For calls outside Texas)

Phone: (907) 465-2550

Alternate Phone Number: 512-463-6599 (For calls outside Texas)

Address:
Main Office: P.O. Box 110806, Juneau, AK 99811-0806

For more information, visit: Alaska Department of Commerce

Types of Contractor Licenses in Alaska

In Alaska contractors must be licensed based on the type of work they do. There are several types of contractor licenses:

General Contractor License: For contractors doing building, remodeling or repair work over $10,000.
Residential Contractor License: For contractors doing building, remodeling or repair work on residential properties.
Specialty Contractor License: For contractors specializing in specific trades such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC etc.
Mechanical Contractor License: For contractors specializing in mechanical systems, heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

Each license has its own requirements, including bonding, insurance and possibly trade specific exams.

Alaska Contractor License Requirements

To apply for a contractor license in Alaska you must meet the following:

Complete the Application

Download the correct application form from the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing website. Make sure to choose the correct type of license for your trade.

Business Registration

If you are a corporation, LLC or partnership you must register your business with the State of Alaska. Sole proprietors do not need to register their business but must have a contractor’s license.

Insurance Requirements

Contractors must provide proof of general liability insurance. Minimum coverage is:

$100,000 per occurrence for residential contractors.
Higher limits for larger projects and commercial work may be required.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance

If you have employees you must carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover on-the-job injuries. This is a state requirement for all contractors with employees.

Surety Bond

A surety bond is required for contractor licensing in Alaska. The bond amount varies by license type:

General contractors need a $25,000 bond.
Specialty contractors may need a different bond amount based on their trade.

Wage and Hour Bond

If you are a contractor who will be employing workers you may also need to get a wage bond to comply with Alaska’s labor laws.

Application Process

Step 1: Submit the Application

Fill out the required forms and submit with the fees. Make sure to include proof of liability insurance, workers’ compensation (if applicable) and your surety bond. All application materials and submission information can be found on the Alaska Contractor Licensing Portal.

Step 2: Wait for Approval

After you submit your application it typically takes 4-6 weeks for approval. If additional documentation is required it may take longer.

Step 3: Pass Any Required Exams

Some contractors, especially those applying for specialty or mechanical contractor licenses may need to pass a trade exam as part of the licensing process.

License Renewal

Alaska contractor licenses must be renewed every two years. The Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing sends out renewal notices. To renew your license, you must provide updated insurance and bonding and pay the renewal fee.

Make sure your coverage is enough to meet the state’s requirements and to protect your business from potential risks.

Out-of-State Contractors

If you are a contractor based outside of Alaska but will be working in Alaska you must still apply for an Alaska contractor’s license. You will follow the same licensing process as in-state contractors and comply with insurance and bonding requirements.

Contact Us

For professional help with your insurance needs during the licensing process visit Contractors Liability. We have insurance solutions designed specifically for Alaska contractors so you’re covered and compliant.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

These are common questions about General Contractor License in Alaska.

Any contractor performing work valued at over $10,000, including general contractors, specialty contractors, and mechanical contractors, must have a valid license.

You can apply through the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing by submitting the required application, proof of insurance, bonding, and necessary fees.

Alaska offers several types of licenses, including General Contractor, Residential Contractor, Specialty Contractor, and Mechanical Contractor licenses.

Yes, all contractors must provide proof of general liability insurance with minimum coverage of $100,000 per occurrence for residential contractors. Higher limits may be required for larger projects.

If you have employees, you are required by state law to have workers’ compensation insurance to cover medical expenses and lost wages in case of work-related injuries.

A surety bond is a financial guarantee that ensures contractors meet their contractual obligations. It is required for all contractors, with bond amounts starting at $25,000 for general contractors.